It’s commonly touted that May to September is the ‘best’ time of year to visit the Finger Lakes, and with plenty of picturesque scenery and generally nice weather, it’s hard to argue that summer is a lovely time to spend time in the region. And while there are undoubtedly advantages to experiencing the Finger Lakes in the height of summer, there are also some convincing reasons you might want to look into booking your visit earlier in the year.

The months before May and the rest of ‘peak’ season can often boast lovely, mild weather while providing a great opportunity to experience some of the Finger Lakes best-loved attractions, amenities, and entertainment without the typical peak season crowds.

Off-Peak Accommodation Rates

If you’ve always wanted to visit the Finger Lakes, but put off a trip because of cost, shifting the dates of your trip could make a big difference in how you can experience the Finger Lakes. Many bed and breakfasts in the area offer specials and deals for guests during the slower months, which means you can save some of your vacation funds to put towards another night out on the town!

Vacation packages are also often cheaper during the spring months, so you can find great prices on bed and breakfasts and other entertainment and dining deals throughout the region. Especially if you call ahead to the bed and breakfast of your choice, you’re likely to find a great deal or package that’s just right for the trip you’ve envisioned.

The Inn on the Main, for example, offers a variety of packages for visitors so you can look forward to pampering yourself and a special guest, or experience the best unique Canandaigua has to offer with their Explore Canandaigua package. Not much of a planner? They’ve also got a package designed with you in mind — check out the Last Minute Deal to soak up the charm and elegance of The Inn on Main.

Room to Breathe

The secret is out about Finger Lakes in the summer, and as a result, crowds can be a factor when planning a summer trip to Finger Lakes. Spring, on the other hand, is a different story. Still relatively quiet and often overlooked in the spring months where tourists are concerned, you’ll still find all the great activities and amenities you would in the summer, but with fewer fellow travelers around to crowd your experience.

Experience the very best wineries, restaurants, state parks, and activities with more personal attention and less distraction.

Plan a stay at The Brick Inn, the perfect jumping off point to explore Letchworth State Park. Enjoy the luxurious amenities and hand-crafted, locally-sourced gourmet breakfast before you begin what’s sure to be some memorable days exploring all Mt. Morris and the Finger Lakes have to offer. 

Unique Wine and Dinner Pairings and Offerings

Many bed and breakfasts throughout the Finger Lakes region offer deals like gift cards or discounts at local restaurants and wineries when you book your stay. Especially in spring, you’ll find these deals commonplace and a great way to get out and experience the delicious fare, one-of-a-kind wines, and calmer ambiance of some of the most-loved spots in the region.

Relax on the sprawling deck at The Chalet of Canandaigua while taking in the views of sprawling wooded hillsides. Wander the relaxing walking trails to the pond, and set a course to Finger Lakes wine country to sample some of the best vintages, just moments away.

Memorable Entertainment – More Elbow Room

If you love live music but aren’t so much into the packed-in-like-sardines scene, then spring in the Finger Lakes is the ideal time of year for a visit. With plenty of live music to choose from at great spots like wineries, coffeeshops, and the larger CMAC, there’s music styles and venues to choose from at just about anyone’s pace in the spring. If it’s been too long since you’ve seen a live play or musical, check out Bristol Valley Theater for a great night of entertainment, with a little more breathing room for dates in the earlier spring and summer.

Relax and unwind at the historic The Brindle and Blonde Bed and Breakfast —  a stone’s throw from the Bristol Valley theater so you can easily make a night, or afternoon, of it. Then easily find your way back to the charming comfort of the Brindle and Blonde’s garden view or hot tub rooms. 

Tag us at @flbba on Instagramif you visit any of our favorite Finger Lakes spots! Let the Finger Lakes Bed & Breakfast Association guide you to the perfect spring retreat. While we have highlighted a few excellent options above, FLBBA boasts a comprehensive list of independent inns across the Finger Lakes. The members of FLBBA abide by a list of high standards set by the organization, so you can confidently plan the perfect getaway today.